The Big Idea

A comprehensive, well-researched synthesis of timeless philosophies –from Machiavelli to
Suntzu, as applied in real-life situations by powerful figures in history such as Queen Elizabeth I
and Henry Kissinger. Absorbing and entertaining, this book lends business people a wealth of
ideas on the subtle art of playing the power game, exercising clever cunning, and understanding
human weaknesses. Whether it is in the boardroom, at a power lunch, or a cocktail party– these
laws will make you master of the game and give you the edge over your rivals.

Wisdom in a nutshell:

Present your ideas in such a manner that they may be ascribed to your master,
or could be viewed as an echo of your master’s thoughts.

If you are more intelligent than your master, act as if you are not.

Never take your position for granted.

Never let favors you receive go to your head.

Discreet flattery is much more powerful. Make it seem like you want to seek his
expertise and advice.

Wisdom in a nutshell:

Do not rely on friends. They will never be totally honest with you. They will not
openly disagree with you in order to avoid arguments.

Enemies expect nothing so they will be surprised when you are generous.

An enemy spared the guillotine will be more grateful to you than a friend.

When you decide to hire a friend you will discover qualities she has kept hidden.

Skill and competence are more important than friendly feelings.

Hiring friends will limit your power.

All working situations require a kind of distance between people.

You destroy an enemy when you make a friend of him.

An enemy at your heels keeps you sharp, alert, and focused.

Wisdom in a nutshell:

Use decoyed objects of desire and red herrings to throw people off scent.

Use smoke screens (a poker face) to disguise your actions.

False sincerity is one powerful tool that will send your rivals on a wild goose chase.

Publicly declare your false intentions to give misleading signals.

A noble gesture can be a smoke screen to hide your true intentions.

Blend in and people will be less suspicious.

NEVER OUTSHINE THE MASTER.

Laws Of Power | R. Greene

Observance of the Law: Galileo was clever
in observing this law by giving glory to his patrons. In order to solve
his perennial problem of funding, he dedicated his discovery of the moons of Jupiter to
the Medicis, since the royal symbol of the Medici family was the planet Jupiter...

NEVER PUT TOO MUCH TRUST IN FRIENDS, LEARN HOW TO USE ENEMIES.

Laws Of Power | R. Greene

Observance of the Law: Emperor Sung
of China in 959 A.D. was able to turn all his enemies into loyal friends.
He persuaded his generals to retire to a life of nobility and give up their dreams of
grabbing his throne one day. He spared those who conspired against him, and was
able to win over enemies with his generosity.

CONCEAL YOUR INTENTIONS

Laws Of Power | R. Greene

Observance of the Law:
Otto von Bismarck was a deputy in the Prussian parliament at a time when many
fellow deputies thought it was possible to go to war against Austria and defeat it.
Bismarck knew the Prussian army was not prepared, so he devised a clever way to
keep the war at bay. He publicly stated his praises for the Austrians and talked about
the madness of war.